Leading An Inclusive Program

Series 1 Episode 5

Leading inclusive classrooms is a mission that requires dedication, innovation, and collaboration. Kristie Donathan, the director of the Early Childhood Department in Mesa County Valley School District, provides invaluable insights into the transformative power of inclusion in early education. Through her experience, she offers a roadmap for administrators, teachers, and families who aim to foster inclusive educational environments.

The Importance of Early Childhood Inclusion

Kristie emphasizes that inclusion from the youngest age is vital for the success of children throughout their school careers. She shares that inclusion helps in forming meaningful friendships and relationships among peers. This environment allows children with and without disabilities to grow academically, socially, emotionally, and behaviorally.

Kristie’s journey began in Delta County, where she experienced the stark differences in inclusive practices between preschool and the K-12 system. This realization inspired her to advocate for stronger inclusive practices within her current role in Mesa County.

Strategies for Creating Inclusive Classrooms

For Administrators

Kristie highlights the importance of eliminating barriers and creating welcoming spaces for all students. She suggests that administrators should:

• Develop a clearly written, public inclusive plan for their schools.
• Ensure that school leaders and teachers believe in full access to inclusive education for all students.
• Foster an environment where disability is seen as a difference, not a deficit.
• Guarantee that all students, regardless of the abilities or disabilities have access to their home school, regardless of disability.

For Teachers

Teachers play a crucial role in the success of inclusive classrooms. Kristie emphasizes the foundation of the Pyramid Model, which focuses on building strong, supportive relationships and environments. She underscores the importance of:

• Utilizing resources like the Pyramid Model and Second Step curriculum to support social-emotional learning.
• Focusing on individual strengths and challenges to create a balanced, supportive classroom.
• Building nurturing and responsive relationships with children and their families.

For Families

Family involvement is critical in the success of inclusive education. Kristie advises:

• Maintaining open communication with teachers and school staff.
• Participating in activities such as home visits to build strong connections with the school.
• Advocating for their child’s needs and collaborating with educators to support their child’s learning journey.

Overcoming Challenges in Inclusion

Kristie acknowledges that creating inclusive classrooms comes with challenges, such as resistance from some educators and the pressure of standardized testing. However, she stresses the importance of perseverance and advocacy. By continually pushing for inclusive practices and leveraging resources like effective teaming training, schools can create environments where all children thrive.

Recommendations for Stakeholders

To build inclusive classrooms like those Kristie advocates for in Mesa County, stakeholders should:

• Administrators: Foster a school culture that values inclusion, provide necessary resources and training, and inclusively evaluate and support staff.
• Teachers: Embrace inclusive teaching practices, focus on building strong relationships within the classroom, and continuously seek professional development in inclusive education.
• Families: Engage actively with the school community, communicate regularly with educators, and participate in school activities to support inclusive practices.

Conclusion

Kristie Donathan’s commitment to creating inclusive early childhood environments offers a model for others to follow. By embracing the principles of inclusion, schools can provide equitable opportunities for all students, fostering a more inclusive and supportive educational system.